Make sure all cookware used in your
microwave oven is suitable for
microwaving. Most glass casseroles,
cooking dishes, measuring cups, custard
cups, pottery or china dinnerware which
does not have metallic trim or glaze with a
metallic sheen can be used. Some
cookware is labeled “suitable for
microwaving.”
• If you are not sure if a dish is microwave-
safe, use this test: Place in the oven both
the dish you are testing and a glass
measuring cup filled with 1 cup of
water—set the measuring cup either in or
next to the dish. Microwave 1 minute at
high. If the dish heats, it should not be
used for microwaving. If the dish
remains cool and only the water in the
cup heats, then the dish is microwave-
safe.
• If you use a meat thermometer while
cooking, make sure it is safe for use in
microwave ovens.
• Some styrofoam trays (like those that
meat is packaged on) have a thin strip of
metal embedded in the bottom. When
microwaved, the metal can burn the
floor of the oven or ignite a paper towel.
• Do not use recycled paper products.
Recycled paper towels, napkins and
waxed paper can contain metal flecks
which may cause arcing or ignite. Paper
products containing nylon or nylon
filaments should be avoided, as they may
also ignite.
• Do not use the microwave to dry
newspapers.
• Not all plastic wrap is suitable for use in
microwave ovens. Check the package for
proper use.
• Paper towels, waxed paper and plastic
wrap can be used to cover dishes in order
to retain moisture and prevent
spattering. Be sure to vent plastic wrap
so steam can escape.
• Cookware may become hot because of
heat transferred from the heated food.
Pot holders may be needed to handle the
cookware.
• “Boilable” cooking pouches and tightly
closed plastic bags should be slit, pierced
or vented as directed by package. If they
are not, plastic could burst during or
immediately after cooking, possibly
resulting in injury. Also, plastic storage
containers should be at least partially
uncovered because they form a tight
seal. When cooking with containers
tightly covered with plastic wrap, remove
covering carefully and direct steam away
from hands and face.
Microwave-Safe Cookware
How to test for a microwave-safe dish.
7
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Special Notes About Microwaving